Andrew Jones MP discusses opportunities for people with disabilities in Harrogate over a cup of Yorkshire Tea

On Friday 6th January, Andrew Jones MP visited three of his constituents at their home in Harrogate to see what social care means for people with disabilities.

Their house is managed by United Response, a national charity which supports people with learning disabilities, physical disabilities and mental health needs to live the lives they choose.

Vicky, James and David, are all in their 30s and early 40s and have various physical disabilities, learning disabilities and communication difficulties.

United Response supports them to live in the community, access meaningful activities such as courses and voluntary work, and have full social lives with their friends and family. They also support with day-to-day tasks such as cooking and laundry and have a kitchen fitted with accessible equipment and assistive technology to promote independence in helping to prepare their own meals.

Mr Jones was keen to see how social care enables his constituents to live happily in their community and chat to them about their hobbies and interests.

Susie Harrison, United Response Service Manager, said: “Vicky, James and David were all thrilled to have Mr Jones over to visit and enjoyed having the opportunity to ask him about his role as an MP, as well as tell him about their own lives and what matters to them. We all had a very enjoyable and relaxed afternoon over a cup of tea, chatting about everything from voluntary work and social groups, to the Tour de France and Yorkshire Tea!”

During the visit, Vicky, James and David talked to Mr Jones about the things they do in the community such as voluntary work, social groups and courses, and how they look after their new pet rabbits. They explained how they are planning their upcoming holidays, which require a lot of planning ahead to ensure accessibility with transport and accommodation.

Staff at the home were able to show Mr Jones how their house has been specially adapted to make it accessible and promote independence.

Mr Jones said: “It was a real pleasure to meet Vicky, James and David, and hear about their hobbies and interests. They are all enthusiastic, inspiring people who have so much to offer to the community. It was great to see how the excellent staff at United Response support them to live their lives to the fullest.”

To find out more about the support United Response offers to people with disabilities across England and Wales, visit: www.unitedresponse.org.uk

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